The exercise began with a tabletop simulation, where officials discussed response strategies, communication protocols and inter-agency coordination mechanisms
Pic/By Special Arrangement
A two-day multi-agency disaster preparedness exercise was conducted at the Navi Mumbai International Airport to evaluate its readiness to handle complex emergency situations, including natural disasters and technological hazards. The exercise brought together multiple central, state and local agencies, focusing on coordination, response efficiency and crisis management systems.
Tabletop planning and equipment demonstrations
The exercise began with a tabletop simulation, where officials discussed response strategies, communication protocols and inter-agency coordination mechanisms. This was followed by demonstrations of specialised rescue equipment and emergency response vehicles designed for rapid deployment during crises.
Officials said these sessions were aimed at aligning operational procedures across agencies and identifying potential coordination gaps before moving to real-time simulations.
Full-scale drill simulates multi-hazard emergency
The key component of the exercise was a full-scale drill simulating a multi-hazard scenario. Situations such as a cyclone impact, fire outbreak and leakage of hazardous radioactive material were recreated to test response systems under pressure.
Teams carried out evacuation from multi-storey structures, search and rescue operations, firefighting and hazard containment measures. Emergency Operation Centres were activated, while communication networks and on-ground coordination were assessed in real time.
Authorities noted that the drill tested the ability of agencies to respond to cascading disasters—where one emergency triggers another—requiring rapid decision-making and seamless coordination.
Participation from multiple agencies and institutions
The exercise was conducted under the guidance of the National Disaster Management Authority and the District Disaster Management Authority. Key response forces included the National Disaster Response Force, Central Reserve Police Force and the Department of Atomic Energy.
Local agencies such as the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation, Panvel Municipal Corporation and City and Industrial Development Corporation also took part, along with the Central Industrial Security Force, fire services, civil defence teams and disaster volunteers.
Medical response was supported by teams from Fortis Hospital Vashi and Apollo Hospital CBD Belapur, ensuring immediate treatment and triage during simulated casualty scenarios.
Officials observe and assess preparedness
Senior officials, including Dinesh Kumar Aswal and Ajay Verma, were present to oversee the drill. Raigad District Collector Kishan Jawale and other administrative and emergency management officials monitored the execution and response timelines.
Authorities said the exercise helped identify operational strengths and areas requiring improvement, particularly in communication, resource mobilisation and on-site safety management.
Focus on strengthening emergency response systems
The drill was aimed at enhancing preparedness for extreme weather events and complex emergencies that could affect critical infrastructure like airports. Officials emphasised that such exercises are essential for improving coordination among agencies and ensuring a swift, structured response during real incidents.
The successful execution of the exercise is expected to contribute to strengthening disaster response frameworks and operational readiness at the upcoming airport facility.
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